2024 Non-School Leavers Applications to PNG Higher Institutions via NOAS: DHERST Key Dates and NSL FAQs

The 2024 Non-School Leavers Applications to PNG Higher Institutions via the National Online Application Systems (NOAS) is a significant step towards achieving the "leave no child behind" policy direction set by the Government of Papua New Guinea (GoPNG). This pathway created by the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST) and Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) allows non-school leavers (NSL) to apply for possible admission. The process, key dates, and common issues faced by applicants are comprehensively addressed in this article.

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: 2024 is the first year Non-School Leavers can apply through NOAS. This is a big and positive step, even with past issues of application and selection process manipulation by some in higher learning institutions in PNG.

Non-School Leavers Participation in NOAS

Commencing this year, non-school leavers are eligible to apply through NOAS for the 2025 academic year selections. This initiative ensures that students who are not part of the current school-leaver cohort still have an opportunity to pursue higher education.

Students who previously had NOAS accounts must contact DHERST via email at noassupport@dherst.gov.pg to activate their accounts. The portal access for NSL students will be available from October 20th to December 9th, 2024, at 11:59 pm. 

Students who are also matriculating, such as those attending Flexible Open Distance Education (FODE) centres, will receive their credentials through their respective matriculation centres.

Frequently Asked Questions from Non-School Leavers

How do I apply online with NOAS as a Non-School Leaver?

To apply as a Non-School Leaver, complete an NSL Form from DHERST and provide your SLF number and other required details. 

After verification, DHERST will issue you an Invitation Letter with a Username and Password to log in and activate your account. This account will allow you to make your program choices starting from October 20th, 2024. 

This timeline ensures that all matriculation/FODE updates of your academic results are imported into your NOAS account to verify your eligibility for HEI programs.

Can I use my old NOAS Username and Password to log in as a Non-School Leaver?

No, you cannot use your previous Username and Password. You must contact DHERST and complete an NSL form to reactivate your account. This step ensures that your updated academic information is accurately reflected in your application. 

Key Dates and Issues Addressed

The participation of non-school leavers in the 2024 NOAS for the 2025 academic year selection is a crucial initiative that aligns with GoPNG’s policy of inclusivity in education. 

It is a massive undertaking by the DHERST and a POSITIVE ONE!

By expanding access to higher education through NOAS, DHERST and HEIs are addressing the concerns of non-school leavers and providing them with opportunities to pursue their academic goals.

If you have problems with login - here is how to recover your username and password.

Important Dates for NSL Applicants

• Portal Access: October 20th to December 9th, 2024, at 11:59 pm.

• Final Program Choices: After receiving the Invitation Letter, you can start making program choices from October 20th, 2024.

This video shows the initial announcement by the then Education Minister, Don Polye, about the transition from manual NSL selection by universities and colleges to DHERST online selection (NOAS) - comment and share your thoughts about this move.

National Non-school Leavers Selections 2024 for 2025

DHERST reassures all 35,000 registered Grade 12 students and 10,000 non-school leaver applicants that ample time will be provided to complete applications. 

Ensure you understand program requirements, quotas, and residential statuses while filling out your MyChoices.

The National Selections will be officially launched by the Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, Hon. Kinoka Fotune Feo, on 16th December 2024.

This event marks the successful selection of the 2024 Grade 12 students in PNG. After the launch, DHERST places unsuccessful students in the Admission Pool to seek the availability of spaces and give them placement.  

The final acceptance lists will be announced before the academic year starts - this is when the final selection comes out with the full list of TESAS Awards for 2025.

Conclusion

The 2024 Non-School Leavers Applications to PNG Higher Institutions via NOAS provides a crucial opportunity for non-school leavers to pursue higher education. By adhering to the key dates and addressing common issues, applicants can ensure a smooth and successful application process.

Relates article for Grade 12 School Leavers - click here

PNG Grade 12 National Online Application System (NOAS), Key Dates, 2024 DHERST Selections and 2025 Acceptance Lists

The Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST) has released critical information regarding the 2024 Grade 12 School Leavers Application for universities and colleges in Papua New Guinea. This announcement details the essential steps and timelines that Grade 12 students must follow to ensure a seamless transition from secondary school to higher education in 2025.

Background

The Grade 12 exams in Papua New Guinea concluded in October 2024. As the education department works on marking and finalizing the results, parents and students are eagerly waiting. 

The exam results play a crucial role in the selection process for tertiary education institutions. This period is vital for students as they prepare to make informed decisions about their future academic and career paths.

Current (2024) Grade 12 School Leaver Applicants

All Grade 12 students must obtain their National Online Application (NOAS) credentials from their school principal and patrons. 

Parents and guardians must ensure that their children secure these credentials before leaving school after the national examinations. If Grade 12 students do not have the NOAS credentials, go back to the schools and get them before the school close-up for the Christmas holiday. This step is fundamental as it grants students access to the online application system, the gateway to their higher education journey.

STAT-P Test Bookings

The booking period for STAT-P tests, mandatory for certain programs, has officially closed. Students who have already booked should verify their booking and payment status. For any queries, students should contact the respective institutions via email:

• PNGUoT: stat-p@pnguot.ac.pg
• UoG: statpenquiries@unigoroka.ac.pg
• PAU: information@pau.ac.pg

Following these steps will help prevent last-minute complications and ensure students are well-prepared for their next academic phase.

2024 NOAS Grace Period

Once the national exam results are released, students will have the opportunity to make their final program choices during the Grace Period. 

The Grace period starts on 2nd December at 12:01am and concludes on 5th December at 11:59pm, allowing students to adjust their applications based on their results and make informed decisions.

Launching of 2024 National Selections for 2025

The National Selections will be officially launched by the Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, Hon. Kinoka Fotune Feo, on 16th December 2024. 

This event marks the successful selection of the 2024 Grade 12 students in PNG. After the launch, DHERST places unsuccessful students in the Admission Pool to seek the availability of spaces and give them placement.  

The final acceptance lists will be announced before the academic year starts - this is when the final selection comes out with the full list of TESAS Awards for 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions (Grade 12 School Leavers)

How will I access my NOAS student account?

The NOAS student account can be accessed through the online portal at https://apply.dherst.gov.pg. Only Grade 12 students who have received their credentials from their school or a matriculation centre can log in using the confidential details provided in the NOAS Invitation letter.

I have entered my NOAS credentials but have not received the email confirmation link. What should I do?

To enhance security, DHERST has implemented additional features, including an authentication email. Students must use the same personal email address entered in the NOAS MyData. Upon the initial login attempt, an email with a security link is sent to the student’s email address. Follow the instructions in this email to complete the setup of their NOAS MyData. The link is time-bound and expires after 4 hours. If the link expires before activation, students must follow the instructions in the NOAS invitation letter to receive a new link. Ensure your email browser is up-to-date and use your personal email address.

What should I do if I have missing subject combinations, misspelt names, or incorrect gender?

Students should promptly report any errors in their subject combinations, names, SLF numbers, or gender to their School Principal or Deputy Principal. The Principal will communicate these corrections to the Department of Education Measurement Services Division (MSD), which will update the data before providing it to DHERST.

What should I do if I misplaced or forgot my password?

If the Invitation Letter containing your Username and Password is lost, consult your School Principal to reissue the letter. For those who have reset their password via the NSR link but have forgotten it, utilize the "Forgot my Password" option to reset it.

Why am I unable to see some programs and HEIs in my NOAS account?

The NOAS account only displays programs for which students are eligible based on their subject combinations. DHERST assures all 35,000 registered Grade 12 student applicants that ample time will be provided to complete their applications. Students should read and understand the program requirements, quotas, and residential statuses while making their choices. Regularly accessing the NOAS MyStatus portal will provide updates and crucial information.

Conclusion

The PNG Grade 12 National Online Application Systems (NOAS) play a vital role in shaping the academic futures of students. By adhering to the key dates outlined, participating in the 2024 DHERST Selections, and accessing the 2025 Acceptance Lists, students in Papua New Guinea can ensure a smooth transition to higher education. 

DHERST remains committed to supporting students throughout this critical phase, providing them with the tools and information needed to make informed decisions about their academic and career paths.

Source: Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (Accessed 29/10/2024) https://web.dherst.gov.pg/news/280-noas-press-statement-2-2024